scope:

The present document describes broadband DA2G communications. Network elements providing coverage onboard aircraft (WiFi and GSMOBA) as well as service platforms (e.g. for passengers, airline internal, aircraft manufacturer) already exist [i.1] and [i.11]. Hence, the presented system concept focuses on the Direct Air-to-Ground (DA2G) connection only, i.e. mainly on DA2G communication infrastructure onboard the aircraft (external antenna, modem, cabling, interface to onboard network) and on the terrestrial radio access network for DA2G communication with broadband backhaul links, preferably to be based on existing infrastructure, but with modifications (e.g. with regard to antenna types and base station implementation) to establish high-performance radio links to aircraft.

The present document does not cover equipment compliance with relevant civil aviation regulations. In this respect, the onboard unit of the DA2G communication system is subject to additional national or international civil aviation airworthiness certification, for example to EUROCAE ED-14E [i.6].